Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transition Program topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Transition program at Bristol High showcases student-run cafe, board agrees to let coordinator seek a dedicated van
Summary
Tammy Norris, transition coordinator for Bristol High School’s 18–21 program, told the board her four‑student program runs a donated‑supplies cafe to fund outings and job training; she described transportation challenges and the board gave permission to seek a dedicated van.
Tammy Norris, introduced by Dr. Bridal Davis as the district’s transition coordinator for 18–21‑year‑old students, described a small program that teaches post‑secondary education skills, employability and independent living.
Norris said the program currently serves four students and operates a cafe stocked entirely with donated items to raise funds for student activities. "Everything that we have done in the community has been, really financed through our cafe," she said. She described students taking orders, handling money and preparing drinks independently, including a student with very limited spoken vocabulary who completes the full transaction process.
Norris outlined community partnerships and hands‑on experiences that serve as job and life skills training: volunteer shifts at the United Way where students counted and packed more than 700 blessing bags; a visit to Andy's Brick Shop at Oxford Valley Mall, which is owned by a person with autism; a resource fair at Bucks County Community College; and use of SEPTA and regional trains for travel training. She said these activities pursue the three core transition areas in students’ IEPs: post‑secondary education, employment and independent living skills.
On transportation, Norris said securing rides for unpredictable errands such as DMV appointments is difficult under the district routing schedule. The board discussed options and approved a motion to allow Norris and administration to look for a used van dedicated to the program so students could travel reliably for appointments and job opportunities. Board members noted that any employee driving district vehicles must meet insurance and liability requirements.
Board members and other attendees praised the program and encouraged community connections and job leads; the board also asked administration to support posting and logistics for a dedicated vehicle if feasible.
